An old-fashioned Hula Hoop is more than just a trip down memory lane. These days, a Hula Hoop can be used as an exciting, proven method to fitness.
Think about it … swaying your hips, tightening your muscles, laughing at yourself (yes, laughing has been said to burn some calories!) It all makes perfect sense.
One of the great things about a Hula Hoop is that you don’t need any fancy or expensive equipment to make one. The materials needed to produce a hoop can all be found at your local hardware store. You will need irrigation tubing (mine used a 12ft long piece), a connector piece (they are usually sold as male and female ends, usually gray in color), and electrical tape. That is it! Simply cut the tubing to size, put a connector in each end, and push it together (a hairdryer can work well to loosen up the ends). Then, wrap the hoop in electrical tape to secure it and add grip. You can even be creative with some personalization by getting different colored tape!
Once you start hooping, you will find that it really is not too difficult, just keep a steady rhythm. I like to listen to music and move my arms. Sometimes, I will even do it while watching my favorite show, and just like that, I’ve hooped for 30 minutes! You’ll know it worked when you wake up the next morning with sore abs! Then, once you get the hang of it, add some pizzazz to your routine and try walking while hooping or curling small weights.
Hooping, gets you up and moving, tightens all the muscles in your core (and in your legs), and is a fun way to get healthy. Try it out!
Want to hoop around some good company? Head on out to Hula Hoopla (http://www.hulahoopla.com/) in Portland.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
